Piano playing at West Farm

One of our residents who lives at West Farm has enjoyed playing the piano for most of her life and we certainly didn’t want that to stop when she moved in with us. In fact, it was very important that Crick continued to play at the place she now calls home.

Her real name is in fact Christine but when her nieces were little they couldn’t say her name and would call her ‘Crick’ and this has stuck with her ever since!

Once Crick had settled in, she received a special delivery a few weeks later – her piano – and it now takes pride of place in our living room. Crick still really enjoys playing it and it’s a fantastic addition to our home because she also treats other residents to a session or two of piano practice which they really interact with and respond positively to.

Sarah Avery, our wellbeing champion at West Farm, said: “Playing the piano is such a big part of Crik’s life and wellbeing and we’re so happy that we’re been able to bring it into our home. It not only creates happiness for Crik but for other residents too who look forward to her piano playing and enjoy interacting with the performance.

“Playing a musical instrument is also a great activity for exercising motor and multisensory skills and research shows that piano playing has a great impact on cognitive function and is a great form of relaxation too so it brings many benefits both to Crick and others.

It also shows just how every resident and their interests, values and personality are treated as the individual they are by us which is why each person has their own bespoke care plan, tailor made to meet their own specific needs.

“It’s wonderful to be in another room and spontaneously hear the piano start and the atmosphere it creates. Crik also plays for visiting family members too. It’s a joy to see and listen to.”

Crik playing her piano

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"All the staff at West Farm have provided such wonderful care, compassion and support to my auntie. We both feel incredibly lucky to have found West Farm, it’s been the perfect home for my auntie. I can honestly say, hand on heart, every aspect of the care provided by each member of staff at West Farm has been outstanding."